Former Apple CEO and co-founder, Steve Jobs, had died following a long battle with a rare form of pancreatic cancer. Apple has confirmed and announced Jobs' death on the company website Apple.com. He was 56.

Apple released the following statement, "Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple."

In August, Jobs stepped down from his post as CEO of Apple, saying in a letter, "If there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come."

Jobs was private about battling his illness, but announced in 2004 that he had cancerous pancreatic tumor, which was later revealed to be an islet cell neuroendocrine tumor -- a rare type of pancreatic cancer that is less aggressive than other pancreatic cancers. According to reports, Jobs underwent surgery to remove the tumor in a procedure that is commonly called a Whipple procedure. In 2009, the CEO had a liver transplant and rumors about his deteriorating health have circulated since.

Apple has set up an email for those would like to share their thoughts, condolences, and remembrances at [email protected]